Mexico

Contradiction in terms? Not anymore! In Acapulco, you get the best of both worlds! Step out for a night on the town or find everything you need - restaurants, bars, night-life - without ever leaving your hotel. Acapulco resorts offer a peaceful and tranquil tropical paradise at the heart of this action-packed vacation destination!

Discovery Routes
Chichen Itza - Jewel of the archeological world, Chichen Itza is the capital of the Mayan culture. Once home to perhaps the most advanced civilization in the Americas, this mysterious city served as an important ceremonial centre. See the infamous Kulkulkan Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, the Observatory and the Sacred Well where countless victims were sacrificed to the ancient gods.

Tulum and Xel-ha - Perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Tulum is thought to have been a major Mayan port. See the Temple of Frescoes, the Temple of the Descending God and El Castillo, a cliff top lookout boasting splendid views of the Yucatan coast. Later, journey to Xel-ha, a natural aquarium for the thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish and dramatic limestone formations. Perfect for snorkelling.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 4 hours 30 mins.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended

Its friendly island atmosphere, world famous diving, and Caribbean beauty make it favourite for vacationers.

Things to do
Dining and Entertainment: Experience the many restaurants from quaint authentic eateries to fine dining- you'll find all in Cozumel.

Diving/Snorkelling: Cozumel is ranked one of the top five dive sites on the planet. Much of Cozumel's coastline is fringed by coral reefs, the sea teeming with undersea life and the slumbering hulls of Spanish galleons. The second largest coral reef in the world starts at Cozumel, the exotic black coral, Palancar Reef.

Diving: PADI , NASDS, NAUI, YMCA, SSI, and CMAS, as well as certification and courses are available.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 4hours.
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican pesos. U.S. currency recommended.
Electricity: Same as Canada and the US
Documents: Check with your travel agent. Mexican tourist cards supplied and validated by your travel agent. Some restrictions apply to tourists 18 years and under, when travelling without parents.

For further information, contact:
MEXICAN GOVERNMENT TOURISM OFFICE
Toll free 1-800-446-3942

Country Trails- Get back to natures on the Pacific coast of Mexico. See typical county houses, plantations, fields of fragrant herbs and spices, and delicious fruit trees.

SUN and SAND
Playa Larga- More than a mile of palm-fringed, golden sand and beach.
Ixtapa Island- Ultra-clear waters, luscious vegetation and motorized water sports.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended

Top-notch tourist haven offering everything the modern traveller expects
GETTING OUT AND ABOUT
Sailing on Banderas Bay- What could be more relaxing than cruising a Caribbean Bay by tropical breeze in a 30-foot Catalina Superior sailboat? Take advantage of an open bar and an informative commentary on the many species of aquatic life in Banderas Bay. You can even help catch your seafood lunch en route to a secluded beach. Plenty of time for swimming, snorkelling, and simply taking in the panoramic coastal scenery.

Hiking to the Sierra Falls- Set out for the St. Lucia sierra ranch set on the shores or a natural river pool. From there, trek through the sierra's rain forest with a wide variety of tropical plants. Walk among the jungle cries of exotic birds to a majestic waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Option: Ask about our horseback riding tour to the Sierra Falls!

River Kayaking- Experience an exciting an invigorating excursion on the Ameca River. Brush up on your bird watching skills and discover a wide range of exotic water fowl and unspoiled landscapes while paddling down river.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours 20 mins.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended.

It's been 11 years since the first hotel was built, so everything features modern amenities. Like Cancun and Ixtapa, Huatulco was selected for tourist development thanks to its beaches, scenery and, of course, ideal climate. In fact, the area boasts more than 300 sunny, dry days per year. Bargain hunters will be pleased to learn that the shops and central market of La Cuucesita boast colourful bargains in true Mexican style.

As the resort area develops, it's nice to know that buildings over 6 storeys are not permitted, and most of the 9 bays will be accessible by boat only ~ roads will never be built. While 18-hole golf course is tone of the attractions, the government has decreed that over 80% of the surrounding area is to remain untouched.

Other sports attractions include sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving in waters that are unusually clear for the Pacific coast. Welcome to the golden beaches of Huatulco ~ a young resort area encompassing the traditions of the best of Mexican hospitality!

FAST FACTS
Flying Time: 5 hours from Toronto
Language: English or Spanish in tourist areas
Best known for: "Undiscovered" beaches; top-notch hotels; reliable climate
Currency: Mexican pesos; US dollar widely accepted.
Departures: Fri. Nov 6 - Dec.11; Thu. Dec.17- Apr.22 via Royal Airline from Toronto

ADVENTURE TOURS:
THE BAYS OF HUATULCO- Visit 7 of the 9 unique bays including a stop for swimming and snorkelling in the turquoise water Cdn. $51 or approx. US$35.
COFFEE PLANTATION- Head inland up the mountains for spectacular views and picturesque villages. Tour a plantation and enjoy a typical lunch. Cdn. $87 or approx. US$60.
OAXACA- travel by air to this beautiful Spanish colonial city and the massive pre-Columbian Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban as well as the splendid Santo Domingo church. Includes lunch and entrance fees. Cdn. $230 or approx. US$156

These and other excursions may be booked locally through your Signature Vacations destination representative.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours.
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican pesos. U.S. currency recommended. Credit cards not widely accepted in local stores
Documents: Check with your travel agent. Mexican tourist cards supplied and validated by your travel agent. Some restrictions apply to tourists 18 years and under, when travel without parents.

For further information contact:
MEXICO GOVERNMENT TOURISM
Toll Free 1-800-446-3942

One of the newest holiday centres on the Pacific coast perfect for the 90s traveller.

OUT AND ABOUT
Mexico City and Teotihuacan- Don't miss your chance to visit the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan and admire the Sun and Moon pyramids, the historical centre and the museum of archeology.

Fishing Tour- Whether you're after small fry or great big fins, Ixtapa offers some of the best fishing tin the world. These Pacific waters offer tuna, marline, Mahi Mahi, Mackerel and so much more!

Golf- Ixtapa offers two extensive and challenging 18-hole courses near the beach!

Country Trails- Get back to natures on the Pacific coast of Mexico. See typical county houses, plantations, fields of fragrant herbs and spices, and delicious fruit trees.

SUN and SAND
Playa Larga- More than a mile of palm-fringed, golden sand and beach.
Ixtapa Island- Ultra-clear waters, luscious vegetation and motorized water sports.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended

Top-notch tourist haven offering everything the modern traveller expects
GETTING OUT AND ABOUT
Sailing on Banderas Bay- What could be more relaxing than cruising a Caribbean Bay by tropical breeze in a 30-foot Catalina Superior sailboat? Take advantage of an open bar and an informative commentary on the many species of aquatic life in Banderas Bay. You can even help catch your seafood lunch en route to a secluded beach. Plenty of time for swimming, snorkelling, and simply taking in the panoramic coastal scenery.

Hiking to the Sierra Falls- Set out for the St. Lucia sierra ranch set on the shores or a natural river pool. From there, trek through the sierra's rain forest with a wide variety of tropical plants. Walk among the jungle cries of exotic birds to a majestic waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Option: Ask about our horseback riding tour to the Sierra Falls!

River Kayaking- Experience an exciting an invigorating excursion on the Ameca River. Brush up on your bird watching skills and discover a wide range of exotic water fowl and unspoiled landscapes while paddling down river.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours 20 mins.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended.

On the Sea of Cortez, 1200 kms south of the U.S. border of California, Loreto lies in a truly spectacular setting. The jagged peaks of the Sierra de la Giganta rise abruptly from the desert plain, forming a dramatic backdrop to the west. The gold and green hills of the Sierra Giganta seem to tumble into the cobalt sea. The skies are clear 360 days of the year. Evenings are cool but romantic. Friendly sea lions and huge turtles abound in the plankton-rich waters. Frolicking dolphins and hungry pelicans dive for food and entertain you.

Things to do!
Fishing: More than 850 species of marine life, including marlin, call this sparkling blue body of water home, creating a year-round fishing utopia.
Tennis and golf: At Eden Loreto Resort.
Whale-watching: Seasonal (late Jan. - March).

• The "Riviera Maya" starts at Puerto Morelos (30 km south of Cancun) and ends just south of the Tulum ruins. Just south is the Sian Ka-an Biosphere Reserve, an ecological park of ruins, lagoons, forests and exotic marine habitat.
  
• Playa del Carmen is about an hour drive from Cancun and provides a base for archaeological buffs to explore the ruins just south & north of town. The shopping and restaurants are great. Playa del Carmen is where you catch the ferry to Cozumel
  
• There are plenty of taxi cabs, but the best way to explore is by renting a jeep or taking a jeep tour into the lush green jungle.
  
• Swim with the dolphins at Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park with beautiful coves, inlets, grottos, natural wells and ruins. Spend a full day as there are evening folkloric music and dance performances.
  
• Xel-ha, just north of Tulum is a snorkeller's paradise. It's best to arrive early or stay late as bus loads of tourists arrive midday and may congest the beach.
  
• Tulum is one of the most famous archaeological sites and, for an extended visit, explore Akumul or Puerto Aventuras.
  
• For an "Indiana Jones" adventure, visit the Coba Ruins. Still covered by thick jungle, this unearthed site gives visitors an unforgettable experience.

GETTING OUT AND ABOUT
Sailing on Banderas Bay -- What could be more relaxing than cruising a Caribbean Bay by tropical breeze in a 30-foot Catalina Superior sailboat? Take advantage of an open bar and an informative commentary on the many species of aquatic life in Banderas bay. You can even help catch your seafood lunch en route to a secluded beach. Plenty of time for swimming, snorkelling and simply taking in the panoramic coastal scenery.
Hiking to the Sierra Falls -- Set out for the St. Lucia sierra ranch set on the shores or a natural river pool. From there, trek through the sierra's rain forest with a wide variety of tropical plants. Walk among the jungle cries of exotic birds to a majestic waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Option: Ask about our horseback riding tour to the Sierra Falls!
River Kayaking -- Experience an exciting an invigorating excursion on the Ameca River. Brush up on your bird watching skills and discover a wide range of exotic water fowl and unspoiled landscapes while paddling down river.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Flying time from Toronto: Approx. 5 hours 20 mins.
Language: Spanish, English
Currency: Mexican peso. American currency recommended

(Sunquest)
From sport fishing to parasailing, snorkelling to horseback riding... whatever your desire, you'll find it in the mountains, jungles and sea that surround the Puerto Vallarta coastline. Puerto Vallarta or PVR as it is known by the many who return here year after year is rimmed by dreamy mountains and set on the shores of the largest natural bay in Mexico. Almost thirty years ago, the passion of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton fueled the legend of romantic Puerto Vallarta during filming of "Night of the Iguana". The streets of the town are still paved with cobblestones. Open-air-markets are filled with handicrafts and quaint white-washed homes with red tiled roofs and iron balconies still tumble down the steep, palm-covered hills as they have for centuries. Today there are really five areas that comprise the destination of Puerto Vallarta. Immediately north of the airport is the newest beachfront resort area called Nuevo Vallarta. Moving south from the airport is Marina Vallarta with its golf course and upscale hotels. Further south is the traditional hotel zone along the Paseo de Las Palmas, a palm-lined boulevard to town with a string of beachfront hotels. Next is El Centro, downtown, with its cobblestone streets that wind past exclusive little boutiques, souvenir shops, fun restaurants energized with mariachi music and little old hotels with cozy bars. Finally, just south of town and away from the action is the upscale and classy area beyond the lure of sun and surf, where adventures abound for those who tire of vacations-as-usual.

Calling all Golfers!!!! Sunquest West is absolutely thrilled to introduce this fabulous new resort area known as the "Jewel" of the Sea of Cortes a place where the erratic forms of cliffs by the sea contrast with the desert; where dune and palm trees frame the beaches of fine sand; and where large cactus and desert vegetation create and unparalleled atmosphere in which to enjoy this exclusive world.

Known locally for its great golf, fishing, marinas, lagoons, diving and beautiful beaches, San Carlos is just 'over the mountain' from the port town of Guaymas, Mexico. Nuevo Guayamas, as San Carlos is also known, has a variety of natural phenomena including beautiful sunsets and cliffs by the sea which contrast with the glorious desert surroundings. Enjoy splendid sun-filled springtime weather and comfortable cool evenings for your holiday retreat. Both Sunquest West resorts feature unbeatable value including unlimited green fees on a first rate 18-hole championship par 72 course for enthusiasts.

DEEP SEA FISHING
Explore the Sea of Cortes on a deep sea fishing expedition for Marlin, Tuna and Dorado. Or just come along for the ride and you'll probably see porpoises, sea lions, manta rays and maybe even a whale.

DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Venture out into town and experience the many different cafes and restaurants from fine dinging to casual eateries. Stroll into a local bar after dinner to experience the charm and character of the natives.

SCUBA DIVING
This is a diver's paradise with a multitude of unique sites to explore. The Sea of Cortes is home to 800 varieties of shells and many species of marine animals.

DESTINATION INFORMATION
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican pesos. US currency recommended.
Climate: Sub-tropical
Documents: Check with your travel agent. Mexican tourist card supplied and validated by our travel agent. Some restrictions apply to tourists 18 years and under when travelling without a parent.

For further information: Mexican Government Tourist Office Toll Free: 1-800-446-3942